Lecture Notes on Reading the Scale of a Drawing (Masonry Work Finish)

Introduction to Drawing Scales

A scale is a ratio that represents the proportionate reduction or enlargement of an object. In
architectural and construction drawings, scales are used to accurately depict the dimensions and
layout of structures in a manageable size on paper.

Importance of Scale in Masonry Work

In masonry work, precise interpretation of drawings is crucial for ensuring that walls, facades,
and other elements are constructed accurately. Misinterpretation of scale can lead to significant
errors in dimensions, placement, and overall construction quality.

Understanding the Scale Notation

Common Scale Ratios: Architectural scales often use ratios like 1:50, 1:100, and 1:200.
1:50 means that 1 unit on the drawing equals 50 units in real life.
1:100 means that 1 unit on the drawing equals 100 units in real life.
1:200 means that 1 unit on the drawing equals 200 units in real life.
Types of Scales
Linear Scale: This is the most common type of scale used in construction drawings. It involves
a straight ruler marked with divisions that correspond to the chosen scale ratio.
Proportional Scale: This type can quickly convert measurements from the drawing scale to
real-life dimensions.
Digital Scale Tools: These tools use digital measurements and conversions, providing greater
accuracy and ease of use.
Reading and Interpreting the Scale on Drawings
Identify the Scale: Look for the scale notation typically found in the title block or near the
legend of the drawing.
Using a Scale Ruler:
Align the zero mark of the scale ruler with one end of the dimension you want to measure.
Read the measurement on the ruler that aligns with the other end of the dimension.
Multiply the measurement by the scale ratio to convert to real-life dimensions.
Worked Example: Masonry Wall Construction
Example Scenario:
You have a drawing of a masonry wall section with a scale of 1:100. The drawing shows a wall
length of 8 cm on paper.

Step-by-Step Calculation:

Identify the Scale: The drawing scale is 1:100.

Measure the Length on Drawing: The wall length measures 8 cm on the drawing.
Convert to Real-Life Dimension:
Real-life length
=
Drawing length
×
Scale ratio
Real-life length=Drawing length×Scale ratio
Real-life length
=
8
cm
×
100
=
800

cm (or 8 meters)
Real-life length=8cm×100=800cm (or 8 meters)
Another Worked Example: Window Opening
Example Scenario:
You have a drawing of a window opening with a scale of 1:50. The drawing shows the height
of the window as 4 cm and the width as 3 cm.

Step-by-Step Calculation:

Identify the Scale: The drawing scale is 1:50.

Measure the Height and Width on Drawing: The height measures 4 cm and the width measures
3 cm.
Convert to Real-Life Dimensions:
Height:
Real-life height
=
4

cm
×
50
=
200

cm (or 2 meters)
Real-life height=4cm×50=200cm (or 2 meters)
Width:
Real-life width
=
3

cm
×
50
=
150

cm (or 1.5 meters)

Real-life width=3cm×50=150cm (or 1.5 meters)
Practical Tips for Masonry Work
Double-Check Measurements: Always verify measurements using the scale before proceeding
with construction.
Use Consistent Units: Ensure that all measurements are converted and recorded using the same
units (e.g., meters, centimeters).
Refer to Detailed Sections: For intricate masonry details, refer to enlarged sections of the
drawings that might be at a different scale (e.g., 1:20 or 1:10) for more precise measurements.
Cross-Reference Dimensions: Use the gridlines and dimensions provided in the drawings to
cross-reference and ensure accuracy.